The Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) ended lower on Monday (20) as widespread selling pushed both benchmark indices down, although trading activity recovered strongly from the previous session.
The All Share Price Index (ASPI) fell 197.31 points to close at 21,208.10, while the S&P SL20 Index dropped 56.46 points to 5,943.22.
Despite the decline, market turnover climbed to Rs. 2.63 billion, rebounding from Rs. 722 million recorded on Friday (July 17), the lowest daily turnover in the past 15 months.
Trading activity was supported by several large crossings, including CT Holdings with Rs. 561 million, Cargills (Ceylon) with Rs. 544.95 million, and Lanka Milk Foods with Rs. 232 million.
Overall market sentiment remained weak, with the share prices of 179 listed companies declining during the session.
According to the CSE, the fall in the ASPI was mainly driven by price declines in Dialog Axiata, Commercial Bank, Richard Pieris & Company, John Keells Holdings, and Carson Cumberbatch.
Last modified: July 20, 2026
